Introduction: The Rising Influence of 1996-Born K-pop Idols
As the K-pop industry becomes more competitive with 5th-generation idol groups, idols born in 1996 continue to dominate the scene.
BLACKPINK’s Jennie, SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi & Woozi, and NCT’s Doyoung are making waves in their respective fields, proving that their influence is stronger than ever.
Jennie’s Solo Comeback: Global Success with ‘Ruby’
On March 7, 2024, Jennie will release her highly anticipated first full-length solo album, ‘Ruby’. Her pre-release tracks, ‘Love Hangover (feat. Dominic Fike)’ and ‘Mantra’, already entered the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Official Singles Chart Top 100, reinforcing her status as a global artist. Her latest track, ‘Extra L (feat. Doechii)’, also ranked No.1 on YouTube’s Trending Music Videos, increasing anticipation for her full album.
With contributions from Dua Lipa, FKJ, and Kali Uchis, ‘Ruby’ boasts high production value and a global appeal. Additionally, Jennie was honored with the ‘Global Force Award’ at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music Awards, proving her worldwide influence. She will also join BLACKPINK’s world tour later this year, performing in major stadiums across North America, Europe, and Japan.
SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi & Woozi Reunite for ‘BEAM’
On March 10, 2024, SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi and Woozi will release their unit single album ‘BEAM’, marking their first official duo comeback in 7 years and 4 months since their collaboration on ‘Shoot Me Before You Go’ from SEVENTEEN’s second full-length album.
- Hoshi, the leader of SEVENTEEN’s performance team, and Woozi, the leader of the vocal team, are expected to deliver a unique combination of dynamic choreography and emotional depth.
- As both members have actively contributed to SEVENTEEN’s music production, ‘BEAM’ is set to showcase their artistic growth and new musical synergy.
NCT’s Doyoung Excels as a Musical Actor in ‘The Man Who Laughs’
Doyoung from NCT is currently starring as Gwynplaine, the lead role in the musical ‘The Man Who Laughs’, sharing the stage with renowned actors Park Eun-tae, Lee Seok-hoon, and Kyuhyun.
- His acting and vocal abilities have received high praise, earning him the fan nickname ‘Doynplaine’ (Doyoung + Gwynplaine).
- As more K-pop idols enter the musical theater scene, Doyoung’s success highlights the growing crossover between K-pop and Broadway-style productions.
Why 1996-Born Idols Continue to Dominate the K-pop Industry
Even as younger K-pop generations rise, Jennie, Hoshi & Woozi, and Doyoung prove that 1996-born idols remain at the top of the industry by:
- Expanding their influence beyond K-pop music, engaging in global collaborations, unit projects, and musical theater.
- Securing spots on major international charts, including the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Official Charts.
- Exploring new artistic directions, whether through solo albums, unit releases, or musical theater performances.
As the K-pop industry evolves, these idols continue to innovate, making Jennie’s solo comeback, Hoshi & Woozi’s unit release, and Doyoung’s musical success some of the most anticipated events of 2024.